Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has dismissed widespread speculation that Wayne Rooney could leave the club at the end of the season.
Rooney was dropped to the bench for Tuesday's Champions League match against Real Madrid, the team's biggest game of the season, sparking stories in the British media that the England striker may be sold, AP reports.
However, Ferguson says on Friday that Rooney "will be here next year, you have my word on that.''
Ferguson says there is "no issue between myself and Wayne Rooney -- to suggest we don't talk is nonsense,'' and maintained his decision to leave the striker out against Madrid was tactical.
Ferguson says Rooney will be involved in United's FA Cup quarterfinal against Chelsea on Sunday.